Casino development freeze planned

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

TORONTO -- Four eastern Ontario communities will be able to vie for a new charity casino before the province imposes a three-year development freeze on new or expanded gambling facilities.

Management Board Chairman Chris Hodgson announced the moratorium Monday, declaring at the same time that one more casino will be allowed in the Thousand Islands tourist area.

"We want to proceed cautiously," said Hodgson, whose ministry oversees the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.

"If gaming is to take place in this province, it's got to be controlled, well-regulated and responsible."

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